Living with the Seasons: Autumn

Kaz Thomas
Mar 22, 2017
2 min read

Autumn is the energy of Metal, the time when nature rids itself of what is not needed, when nature sheds its leaves and lets go of the rubbish it no longer needs. With those leaves it produces its own compost, enriching the soil, ensuring the next cycle has the nutrients it needs to grow.

In TCM, Metal relates to the organs Lung and Large Intestine.

The Lung Meridian is the "Receiver of Heavenly Qi" giving us the ability to receive pure qi, connection to the spirit and real connection to others.

The Large Intestine Meridian is known as the "Drainer of the Dregs". It is about our ability to let go of what is not needed from our body, mind, spirit and emotions. Thus helping us to stay clean and not cloggeged up with what no longer serves us.

Autumn is a time for reflection, it is a time to organize and prepare for the winter season ahead. Emotionally, this is the season associated with grief and sadness. It is important to keep the mind clear and "let go" of negative emotions, which can impact health.

We need to adjust some of our routines with the change of seasons and nature our body and health into Winter..

Diet:

Cold damp foods injure the lung
Eat grounding warming foods in Autumn
Root vegetables and milk sweet spices

Exercise:

Tai Qi is excellent exercise for Autumn. The basis of Tai Qi is grounding. Full contact of the minds eye with the ground through the feet. When was the last time you walked slowly, barefoot, on the ground, and paid attention to the sensations in your feet? Try it in autumn, and then try standing calmly in the same way. This is the beginning of Tai Qi. It will make your breathing even and smooth, you will gather the qi and calm your spirit.

Engaging in light exercise such as yoga, walking or mediation are encouraged in Autumn as the weather gets colder the level of exercise should change.

Common Autumn conditions

In the clinic we regularly encounter dry coughs, dry skin and constipation. It is also a time of year when asthma, hot flashes and insomnia gets worse. These conditions can linger for weeks and can be difficult to overcome.